Exposed aggregate requires a much wetter mix than traditional concrete.
One of the options for road surface material is exposed aggregate. There are several pros and cons to having an exposed aggregate driveway, one of the benefits is its durability. There are also multiple color and texture options, allowing homeowners to perfectly match or contrast the surface to their home. Unfortunately, it is difficult to remove exposed aggregate without the help of a professional. Also, it usually needs to be resealed every few years to keep it looking good.
An exposed aggregate driveway is usually durable, which is not surprising since it is made of concrete. In general, this is a desirable feature of any surface on which cars will be driven or stored, and is also a good feature in areas with extreme weather, as it can withstand direct sunlight, snow, rain, and ice. Unlike some surfaces, exposed aggregate should last for years with limited maintenance, as it is quite tough. In addition, it is non-slip due to the small stones placed on the concrete, which makes cars barely slip on the surface, even when wet.
Homeowners who want more color options than gray or black should be happy with an exposed aggregate driveway, as the small stones on top can be various colors. This allows the surface to match the colors of the exterior of the house, although it can also contrast well if that is the wish of the owner. The texture also varies depending on the size of the stones on top, as they can be especially small or larger. Another advantage of this material is that it does not usually have tire marks, since it is made up of different colors, which allows you to easily hide stains.
One drawback to an exposed aggregate driveway is that most homeowners will need to hire a professional to prepare the surface. This is because the aggregate must be poured, exposed, washed, and then sealed. The process can take weeks and the typical homeowner does not have the knowledge or experience to do it alone.
While it doesn’t require much maintenance to keep this type of driveway in good shape due to its ability to hide stains, it does need to be sealed initially to keep it looking shiny. Then it needs to be resealed every three to five years to keep it looking shiny. It’s also wise for homeowners to occasionally hose down their driveway to keep it looking new.
